Hormone Myths: Busted

Low libido can be hard to fix—and difficult to explain. Some women have diminished desire because of too-low "estrogen, which makes you want to be intimate, and testosterone, which can contribute to sex drive," says Andrew Goldstein, M.D., director of the Centers for Vulvovaginal Disorders in Washington, D.C. For some, altered hormones from the Pill or fertility treatments could affect desire. But most often, a sputtering sex life stems from relationship problems, Dr. Goldstein says. Feeling stressed or depressed, having a poor body image and not getting enough sleep can all play a role in your lack of lust, too.

FIX IT If you're on the Pill, your ob/gyn might suggest a non-hormonal birth control like a diaphragm or an IUD. But Dr. Goldstein says it's even more important to examine your relationship, especially if you're in a rut: "Try something new together, like an exotic cuisine, that stimulates both partners," he advises. "And remember, work-related stress can distract you from really connecting with your partner: The best aphrodisiac is the weekend." Don't forget to pump up libido-lifting dopamine with regular exercise; if that weren't awesome enough, working out can also help with passion killers such as stress, body image and sleep problems.